One of the biggest reported causes of friction between those in power within the Washington Commanders centered on the team's allocation of reps amid a losing season.
General manager Adam Peters reportedly wanted younger players to get meaningful reps as part of his evaluation process, especially as things began to spiral. Instead, head coach Dan Quinn kept faith with his aging veterans right until the bitter end.
It was to his detriment. The Commanders may have won against the Philadelphia Eagles' second-string in Week 18, but it didn't change anything. What this refusal — this blind faith in experienced individuals who won't be part of the team's plans moving forward — did was deny potential long-term pieces a chance to gain valuable experience. And there was no better time with nothing to play for other than pride.
Quinn is a loyal guy. But this was nothing short of complete stubbornness. And the Commanders are no closer to finding out what they have with some on the roster as a result.
Dave Canales exposed the need for Dan Quinn to alter his Commanders strategy
Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales, who is leading the NFC South club into their first playoff matchup since 2017, held a different opinion. He was willing to throw his young guns into the fire without hesitation. He knew there would be growing pains, but he stayed the course. And things are now looking much more promising for a franchise that was on its knees before his arrival.
"Every mistake that a rookie makes is an investment in our future. It gives us an opportunity to coach them and refine them. Because when it gets this late into the season, they're fresh. There is such a vibrance to the youth movement of any team. They will frustrate you, they will piss you off early on, but it's a part of the growth process."Dave Canales via Queen City News
During early season struggles, Dave Canales was adamant about younger players getting valuable in-game reps to develop.
— Gabe McDonald (@GabeMcDonald_) January 7, 2026
It certainly paid off as the entire 2025 #Panthers rookie class proved throughout the season that the future is bright in Carolina.
"Every mistake that a… pic.twitter.com/xvBqvvzs1y
Granted, the Commanders had the NFL's oldest roster as they went all in for a Super Bowl. Once these dreams fell by the wayside, Quinn refused to alter his mindset, opting to do right by his older players and completely overlook fresher faces. There were a couple of examples of fledgling stars flourishing, but nothing that warrants any legitimate encouragement for the future.
This is deeply frustrating. It's the philosophy of an older coach unwilling to change. Canales is part of the next generation, a progressive figure from the Pete Carroll coaching tree that always preached the need for youthful players to learn by doing on the field in a competitive setting.
There is nothing special about the Panthers. They are a young group, all learning and growing together. But make no mistake: they will be much better off for this experience in the coming years.
As for Quinn? He's looking for two new coordinators and a drastic roster overhaul. And the Commanders only have themselves to blame.